Each year, hundreds of thousands of families search for the best high schools in the United States. They seek out schools that provide a superior academic experience, competitive sports offerings, and an active atmosphere. Choosing the right high school can set a student on the right course toward success in college and career. Take a look at fifteen of the best U.S. high schools which regularly feature on the list of the top school in the country.
1. Thomas Jefferson High School for Science And Technology, Virginia
Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) leads the nation in STEM education. In Alexandria, Virginia, TJHSST attracts the region’s top students. With a robust curriculum featuring classes in advanced mathematics, computer science and engineering, and the sciences, the school attracts students with a passion for science and technology.
2. Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (I.L.)
The Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (IMSA) is a premiere school for gifted instruction. Located in Aurora, Illinois, this top-notch public boarding school focuses on critical thinking and creativity. An internationally recognized school that emphasizes hands-on learning and nurtures curiosity, the Illinois Math and Science Academy (IMSA) is regarded as one of the best STEM-focused schools in the nation.
3. Stuyvesant High School (N.Y.)
Stuyvesant High School in New York City is a bastion of academic rigor. Established in 1904, Stuyvesant is among the highest-ranked high schools in the nation. The entrance exam to join is one of the toughest exams, and it attracts bright minds among adolescents (especially in maths and science).
4. Phillips Academy (Massachusetts)
Phillips Academy, better known as Andover, is among the oldest high schools in the nation. One of the most well-known private schools in the country, Phillips Academy, offers challenging classes and is located in Andover, Massachusetts, where it has produced countless graduates. The Andover brand is known for its diversity and service to the world.
5. The Davidson Academy (Nevada)
The Davidson Academy is a school in Reno, Nevada, specifically designed for gifted students and offers an accelerated curriculum. The unique public school attracts some of the most motivated students from all over the U.S. If there is one university where the right sort of student will find the ideal environment for an intellectual oasis, it is Davidson, with its small classes and personalized attention.
6. Bronx High School of Science (NewYork)
The Bronx High School of Science in New York is famed for those with a desire to pursue STEM. Notable for producing many Nobel winners, this school emphasizes thorough academics and research prospects. Bronx Science takes pride in its diverse student body and focuses on excellence.
7. School for Advanced Studies (Florida)
Located in Miami, Florida, the School for Advanced Studies (SAS) provides students with an unprecedented dual-enrollment experience. It’s where students take high school and college classes that earn them college credits. It offers one of the fastest routes to college for students who are interested in pursuing higher education, and SAS is one of the best options.
8. Bergen County Academies (New Jersey)
Bergen County Academies (BCA), located in Hackensack, New Jersey, has seven career programs that specialize in topics ranging from engineering and medical science to culinary arts. This ensures that the student body is entire of highly motivated, interesting people, as the school has a competitive admissions process. BCA has a hands-on curriculum that grooms students for the best universities and careers.
9. BASIS Scottsdale (Arizona)
With academic standards and a college-preparatory focus, BASIS Scottsdale is a charter school. This school, located in Scottsdale, Arizona, focuses on critical thinking and a challenging curriculum. One of the top schools, BASIS Scottsdale, is particularly famous for its Advanced Placement (A.P.) program and high college acceptance rates.
10. Boston Latin School (M.A.)
Founded in 1635, Boston Latin School is the oldest public school in the U.S. This top-tier institution focuses on classical education and nurturing students to prepare them for top universities. The school is highly selective, maintains its rigorous academic tradition, and is located in Boston, Massachusetts.
11. The Harker School, San Jose (C.A.)
The Harker School, San Jose, California, is a private school with a diverse curriculum and a supportive learning environment. It provides advanced courses here and fosters creativity via art, music, and theater programs. Harker alums go on to the nation’s top colleges.
12. Academic Magnet High School (South Carolina)
Academic Magnet High School in North Charleston, South Carolina, is ranked at the top of public schools in the nation for rigorous academics and leadership. The school has an extremely competitive admissions practice, with only the most talented students eager to excel in studies and activities.
13. Georgetown Day School (Washington, DC)
Georgetown Day School GDS is a private, progressive education school in Washington, D.C. GDS promotes creative and critical thinking complemented by an emphasis on social justice and inclusivity. What makes this school modern and a leader in education is the community-oriented approach toward learning.
14. Whitney High School (California)
At Whitney High, a magnet school in Cerritos, California, students get one of the best public educations you can find in the country. Whitney regularly ranks among the top schools in California due to its emphasis on college preparation and academic rigor, attracting applicants from many areas.
15. Staten Island Technical High School, New York
Staten Island Technical High School is a public specialized high school in New York City focused on STEM. The school has a rigorous emphasis on technology, providing specialties in robotics, engineering, and computer science. Staten Island Tech is highly sought-after for students looking to enter a STEM field.
These institutions offer demanding academics and unique programs that motivate students to grow to their highest potential.
